Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Maxim Online

But don’t take our word for it, because Prince won Best Action-Adventure Game at this year’s E3 expo. So it’s got that going for it…which is nice.

Entertainment Weekly

Such forward-thinking ideas have paid off royally: This Prince is a worthy heir to the best videogame throne. [19 Dec 2003, p.L2T 20]

NintendoWorldReport

You may pick up Prince of Persia for the killer gameplay, but the story is what will keep you coming back. This game is like an excellent short story. Every once in a while you’ll pick it up again to relive the breathtaking adventure.

GameNow

This is the kind of game that literally makes you forget you're playing a game, leaving you barely aware of your body and just totally consumed by the action onscreen.

Nintendophiles

An incredible game.

IGN

An outstanding game -- a dazzling, masterful achievement...Thanks to wholly intuitive control, stunning atmosphere and satisfyingly clever environmental puzzles, the title easily ranks as one of my favorite adventure offerings of all time.

GameZone

Every aspect of this game is outstanding, the concept, level designs, controls, graphics, etc.

Game Chronicles

A landmark achievement in game design starting with the addictively fun core gameplay, instinctive controls, then rounding out the package with gorgeous visuals, stunning special effects, and professional sound work.

Nintendojo

Once again props go out to Ubi Soft Montreal for meshing environments with an outstanding control scheme and stunning graphics.

1UP

I haven't played a better game all year.

Game Over Online

Excellently produced, with intuitive, responsive controls, a deep, engaging storyline and immersive sound.

GamingWorld X

I can’t remember the last time a game impressed me this much by not only its style and unique qualities, but also by simply being fun. There was not a single moment during Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time that I was not having fun...Gets my vote for Best Game of 2003. I have never played anything like it. It’s simply amazing.

Worth Playing

The most striking aspect of this game is the unity of its high production values. No corners were cut on this project. While most games excel at one aspect and falter in another, POP strives to achieve in every aspect.

Electronic Gaming Monthly

Pure magic. Soft lighting effects and elaborate, detailed architecture give the entire experience the quality of an opium-induced vision where time moves at the speed of your imagination. PoP's immersive atmosphere takes you to another level altogether. [Dec 2003, p.186]

PGNx Media

The Sands of Time effects are awesome; you have to see them to believe them. The character models don’t push polygon limits but the animation is intense.

TotalGames.net

On purely a technical stand point it stands out as looking and sounding like a remarkable achievement but just millimetres below the surface you'll see arguably the most ingeniously crafted game modern consoles have had the pleasure to run.

Gamer's Pulse

A remarkable game blending the groundbreaking adventure elements the series is known for, with intense action, enthralling storytelling, and beautiful visuals and audio.

Next Level Gaming

A game that I simply can not get enough of.

GameCube Europe

Besides a couple of camera issues every now and then and the game’s short length I can’t say a lot of bad things about this game. The gameplay is solid and easy to learn, the controls are intuitive, it has a wonderful atmosphere.

Gamenikki

While the GameCube version isn't the best-looking of the three platforms (it's better than the PS2 version, but worse than the Xbox port), Prince of Persia is an artistic masterpiece.

Nintendo Power

You're going to need a sling to keep your jaw from dropping to the floor. The graphics are gorgeous, the puzzles are clever and the soundtrack is beyond reproach. [Feb 2004, p.147]

Thunderbolt

For all of you that are seeking a challenge and great adventure, give Prince of Persia a go.

netjak

By far the best platformer this year. Period. End of discussion. If you disagree, you’re wrong.

Edge Magazine

The freedom of movement requires a new level of spatial imagination. Before Prince of Persia, platform games were like playing Tetris with only the blocks and bars. [Christmas 2003, p.100]

Computer and Video Games

This game is awesome and among the finest games on a Nintendo console not to be created by Ninty itself. In fact, you can almost imagine Miyamoto himself playing this, grinning, and taking notes.

GameSpot

Recommended wholeheartedly. It looks fantastic and features responsive controls, some original play mechanics, a good story, and plenty of thrilling adventure. In the simplest terms: Do not miss out on this game.

Cincinnati Enquirer

A refreshingly smart, elegant adventure.

GameSpy

A wonderful rebirth of a classic franchise.

Inside Gamer Online

If you enjoy beautiful, fluid, entertaining adventures, then this is your chance to take part in one.

Game Revolution

The biggest problem with my new game is the cinematography. I don’t know what schmuck hired these camera guys, but they should have their pinkies cut off or something. Sometimes entire fight scenes are obscured by a curtain.

GMR Magazine

But POP's only really significant flaw lies in its adventure/action ratio: Both aspects are thoroughly fleshed-out but rarely intertwined.

NTSC-uk

First time through may well take less than ten hours to complete, with possible repeat playing naturally taking much less. But for that time, there are some of the most enjoyable gaming experiences ever to savour and the sheer scope of the game makes it seem like you've spent far more time on it than you actually have.

games(TM)

Sands of Time is very much a 21st century product - sumptuous visuals, intuitive control and many unique ideas. Buy it, play it, love it. [Dec 2003, p.92]